Presidential Fellowship

The George Washington University Presidential Fellowship offers high-achieving students the opportunity for professional development and graduate study at GW. Founded in 1989, the Presidential Fellowship program requires a two-year commitment and fellows contribute to the advancement of the GW community by serving as ambassadors through their academic, professional, and personal involvement.
 

Fellowship Benefits

• Two years of full tuition coverage for full-time study in an accredited GW master's degree or PhD program
• $35,000 in combined stipend and salary for the academic year (9 months)
• Access to enhanced academic and professional development resources
• Professional development through placements in university offices and administration aligned with the Fellow's area of interest
• Opportunity to serve as a GW student ambassador and participate in unique events and initiatives with GW administrators and stakeholders

Eligibility Criteria

For current undergraduate seniors intending to enter a master's program:

• Currently enrolled GW undergraduate student
• Minimum of 60 credits at GW
• Minimum GPA of 3.25 at the time of application
• Have received acceptance to or intend to apply to a GW Master's degree program beginning in Fall 2026 

*Please note that students in accelerated Bachelor's/Master's programs (i.e. 4+1 Programs) are not eligible for the Presidential Fellowship. Students must commit to at least two years of Master’s program study in the Presidential Fellowship Program.

Presidential Fellowship Incoming Master's Students - Apply Now!

For current undergraduate seniors intending to enter a direct doctoral program:

• Currently enrolled GW undergraduate student
• Minimum of 60 credits at GW
• Minimum GPA of 3.5 at the time of application
• Have received acceptance to or intend to apply to a GW doctoral degree program beginning in Fall 2026

For current final year master's students intending to enter a doctoral program:

• Currently enrolled GW master's student with a planned graduation date in Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026.
• Minimum GPA of 3.75 at the time of application
• Have received acceptance to or intend to apply to a GW doctoral degree program beginning in Fall 2026

Presidential Fellowship Incoming Doctoral Students - Apply Now!

Required Application Materials:

• Application
• Unofficial Undergraduate Transcripts
• Unofficial Graduate Transcripts (if applicable)
• (2) Letters of Reference
  • At least one reference must be from a professor familiar with the academic ability and leadership potential of the applicant

This award is available in two separate categories: Master's and Doctoral. Please be sure to submit the appropriate application found in the Fellowship Forms list.